Liam Payne Death Investigation: Court Upholds Acquittals
A panel of judges from Argentina’s Court of Appeals has confirmed its earlier decision to acquit three individuals initially charged with involuntary manslaughter relating to the death of singer Liam Payne. This ruling comes after a prosecutor’s appeal aimed at overturning the acquittal.
Background of the Case
Liam Payne, who tragically passed away in mid-October after falling off a third-floor balcony at the CasaSur Palermo hotel, had involved friends and hotel staff in the judicial process following his death. Among the accused were Payne’s friend, Roger Nores, and hotel employees Gilda Martin and Esteban Grassi. All three were exonerated of any wrongdoing in February.
Details of the Appeal
On March 5, the prosecution filed an appeal claiming that the lower court’s judgment was misguided. They specifically pointed out that certain digital evidence—including hard drives from Payne’s devices and the hotel’s reception—had not been examined before the acquittals were finalized.
Court’s Ruling and Justification
In its ruling on March 12, the Appeals Court acknowledged the appeal’s submission; however, it concluded that the arguments presented did not meet the threshold required for a successful challenge. The judges commented that the prosecution’s objections largely stemmed from disagreement with the initial assessment of the evidence rather than providing robust legal reasoning to support the acquittal’s reversal.
The court noted, “Rather than providing a specific and detailed critique of the Court’s reasoning, the appeal merely expresses disagreement…,” indicating that such disagreements do not merit further court actions.
Next Steps for the Prosecution
In light of the recent decision, the prosecution has escalated its efforts by taking the matter to the Cámara de Casación and is also awaiting a response regarding another charge related to drug facilitation against Roger Nores.
Continuing Legal Proceedings
While Nores, Martin, and Grassi have been acquitted, two other individuals, Ezequiel Pereyra and Braian Paiz, remain incarcerated as they await trial for their alleged roles in supplying drugs to Payne.
Recent Media Coverage
This update follows a detailed investigation published by Rolling Stone that delved into the circumstances surrounding Payne’s death and included insights from his ex-fiancée, Maya Henry, who spoke publicly for the first time about the tragedy.
Conclusion
The legal proceedings stemming from Liam Payne’s death continue to evolve, with the recent court ruling establishing the current status of the acquitted parties and the ongoing issues being pursued by the prosecution.
